A large sink hole

... and it needs to be explored!

A creek disappearing into a sink hole

I think there's someone in that hole...

It's probably Balin, son of Fundin and Lord of Moria!!!

While everyone is busy making other plans...

...Only one stands mesmerized by the evil nature of dark cave

The exposed layers of limestone of the Niagara Escarpment

Ooo! A large cave!

Must explore!!!

Water flows out of one wall in the cave, and disappears into another

The water flows through a narrow crack between the layers of limestone

The ever-present Maddy

Maya points to a resurgence - a place on a slope where water surfaces, having previously flown underground

Meanwhile, when deep in the woods, watch out for this man. He's known to walk around with a long stick and collect mushrooms and lost travellers

The entry to the main cave, about 5 feet deep with some water on the bottom

Inside the cave it's narrow and wet, requiring the tireless explorers to crawl on their knees in cold water

Almost near the end!

Near the end, the cave suddenly opens up into a large chamber with the creek forming a 3-ft waterfall

The Grand Chamber

Me, at the very end of the cave

Maya coming to our rescue

Getting to the bottom of the chamber requires a jump onto wet rocks

It sure is wet down here

The ceiling of the chamber presents an intricate display of arches and columns

More arches and columns

Finally back to sunlight!